US formally seeks extradition over child abuse images

The US has formally requested the extradition of an Irish man described by the FBI as the "largest facilitator of child porn on the planet".

Eric Eoin Marques, 28, of Mountjoy Square in Dublin, is wanted on four charges linked to website images.

He appeared before the High Court in Dublin on Thursday.

The court heard a formal request for extradition has been received from the US and a certificate granted by Irish Justice Minister Alan Shatter.

Patrick McGrath, senior counsel for the Irish attorney general, said the accused - who has Irish and US citizenship - was wanted in connection with the advertising, distribution and conspiracy to advertise and distribute child pornography.

The charges date from July 24, 2008 to July 29, 2013. He was arrested in Dublin on 31 July.

He is accused of being the sole administrator of a hosting server where multiple websites were held and where it is alleged pornographic images were shared.

If convicted in the US he faces sentences of up to 30 years in prison.

Mr Marques was arrested two weeks ago in the Irish capital on a provisional warrant and refused bail amid fears he was a flight risk and would interfere with evidence.

Mr Justice Nicholas Kearns, president of the High Court in Ireland, adjourned the case until 11 September and remanded Mr Marques in custody.

Defence barrister Remy Farrell told the court he would apply for bail at the hearing.